Egypt–Turkey Investment Relations
Egypt and Turkey signed a bilateral investment promotion and protection agreement, and have been working to normalize trade relations. Both countries are members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and have historical economic ties. Turkish-Egyptian trade has been recovering with diplomatic normalization in 2023.
Egyptian investment in Turkey spans textiles, construction, trade, and services sectors. Following diplomatic normalization in 2023, Turkish-Egyptian economic ties have been strengthening. Istanbul hosts a notable Egyptian business community. Turkey and Egypt share strong cultural and historical connections that facilitate business relations.
Can Egyptian Citizens Open a Company in Turkey?
Yes. Citizens of Egypt can form a company in Turkey with 100% foreign ownership. Turkish law does not require a local partner or Turkish shareholder. Egyptian nationals receive equal treatment under the Turkish Commercial Code, with the same rights and obligations as Turkish-owned companies.
There are no sector restrictions specific to Egyptian investors — the vast majority of business activities are open to foreign companies without special permissions.
Visa & Work Permit Information
Egyptian citizens need a visa or e-Visa to enter Turkey for business purposes. E-Visa applications are processed online. Work permits require a separate Ministry of Labour application after company formation.
Foreign shareholders who do not intend to work or reside in Turkey do not need a work permit or residence permit to own a company. However, if you plan to actively manage your Turkish company from Turkey, a work permit is legally required.
Recommended Company Type
The most common structure among Egyptian investors is the Limited Liability Company (LLC / Ltd. Şti.).
LLC (Ltd. Şti.)
- Min. 50,000 TRY capital
- 1–50 shareholders
- Simple management structure
- Best for SMEs and service businesses
Joint Stock (A.Ş.)
- Min. 250,000 TRY capital
- 1+ (no limit) shareholders
- Board of directors required
- Best for large-scale or IPO-track businesses
Branch Office
- No separate legal entity
- No minimum capital
- Extension of parent company
- Best for companies testing the market
Requirements for Egyptian Citizens
- Valid passport from Egypt
- Turkish tax identification number (vergi numarası)
- Registered business address in Turkey
- Notarized Articles of Association (in Turkish)
- Minimum share capital deposit at a Turkish bank
- Power of attorney (if forming remotely without visiting Turkey)
Formation Process
- Consultation — Choose your company type, define business activities, and plan your structure
- MERSIS Pre-Registration — Enter company details in Turkey's central registry system
- Articles of Association — Draft, notarize, and sign (or via power of attorney)
- Bank Account & Capital Deposit — Open a Turkish bank account and deposit at least 25% of capital
- Trade Registry — File with the local Trade Registry Office
- Tax & Social Security — Register with the tax office and SGK
- Work Permits — Apply if foreign managers or employees will be based in Turkey
The process typically takes 5–10 business days once all documents are prepared. If documents need apostille or consular legalization from Egypt, allow additional time.